If you're hunting for a sole e35 used, you've probably realized by now that these things are built like absolute tanks, which is exactly why they're such a popular choice on the secondhand market. Buying brand-new fitness equipment can be a massive gut punch to your bank account, often crossing that $1,500 mark before you even consider tax or delivery. But snagging a pre-owned model lets you get that gym-quality feel without having to live on ramen noodles for the next three months.
The Sole E35 has been a staple in "best of" lists for over a decade, and for good reason. It doesn't have all the flashy, giant touchscreens that some of the high-end NordicTrack or Peloton machines have, but it makes up for it with sheer durability. When you're looking at a used one, you're looking at a machine that was designed to handle heavy daily use.
Why the Sole E35 Stands the Test of Time
The biggest reason people go looking for a sole e35 used rather than a cheaper department store brand is the frame. Most budget ellipticals feel like they're going to tip over the second you start a high-intensity interval. The E35 is heavy—really heavy. It uses a high-grade steel frame that stays planted on the floor.
Another thing that makes it a great used buy is the 25-pound flywheel. In the world of ellipticals, the heavier the flywheel, the smoother the motion. A lot of older used machines from other brands start to feel "jerky" as the magnets or belts wear down, but the E35 tends to stay buttery smooth even after years of use. If you find one that hasn't been sitting in a damp garage for five years, it'll likely feel almost as good as the day it was unboxed.
Sole also keeps things simple with their electronics. While a 15-inch tablet screen on a treadmill looks cool, those are usually the first things to break. The E35 typically uses a more straightforward LCD or basic LED display. It's less "techy," sure, but from a used-buyer's perspective, it's one less expensive thing that can go wrong.
What to Look for When Inspecting a Used Unit
So, you found a listing on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. You're ready to go check it out. What should you actually be looking at? Don't just look at the cup holders and call it a day.
First, look at the rails. The E35 uses a unique rail system where the pedals glide on wheels along heavy-duty tracks. Check those tracks for "pitting" or deep scratches. If the previous owner never wiped them down, dust and hair can get trapped under the wheels and grind into the metal. It's not necessarily a dealbreaker, but it tells you how well they maintained the machine.
Next, listen to it. Ask the seller if you can jump on and do a quick five-minute workout. You're listening for squeaks, clicks, or grinding sounds. A little bit of a "whoosh" sound from the flywheel is normal, but anything rhythmic or metallic usually means a bearing is going out or the belt is frayed.
Check the incline motor too. One of the best features of the E35 is the power incline. Push the buttons and make sure the machine actually moves up and down smoothly. If the motor sounds like it's screaming in pain, it might be on its last legs. Replacing an incline motor isn't the hardest DIY project, but it's a cost you'll want to factor into your offer.
Is the Older Version Still Worth Buying?
Sole has updated the E35 several times over the years. You might find a sole e35 used that's from 2014, or you might find one from 2021. Generally, the core "bones" of the machine haven't changed that much. The stride length has stayed consistent at 20 inches, which is the "sweet spot" for most people.
The main differences are in the console. The newer versions (roughly 2019 and later) have Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to sync your workout data to apps or use the built-in speakers without a physical cord. They also added integrated tablet holders and USB charging ports.
If you don't care about syncing your stats to an app and you just want a solid workout, don't be afraid of the older models. If the price is right—say, under $500—an older E35 is still miles better than a brand-new $500 elliptical from a big-box retailer. Just make sure the heart rate grips or the chest strap (if they still have it) actually talk to the console.
How Much Should You Actually Pay?
Pricing for a sole e35 used can be all over the map. Some people think their five-year-old machine is still worth 90% of what they paid for it. Newsflash: it's not. On the flip side, you'll occasionally find someone moving house who just wants the "giant heavy thing" out of their basement for $200.
In general, a fair price for a well-maintained E35 that's 3-5 years old is somewhere between $500 and $750. If it's the absolute latest model and looks like it was used as a clothes rack rather than a workout machine, you might pay up to $900. Anything over $1,000 is pushing it, especially since Sole frequently puts the new ones on sale for around $1,400.
If the machine is older (pre-2015) or shows significant wear, you should be looking at the $300 to $450 range. Always check the "completed items" or "sold" listings on local apps to see what people are actually paying in your area, as prices in big cities might be higher than in more rural spots.
The Logistics of Getting It Home
Let's talk about the elephant in the room: the weight. A Sole E35 weighs about 230 pounds. It is not something you're going to toss into the back of a Honda Civic. You are going to need a truck, some ramps, and at least one very strong friend—honestly, two friends is better.
One mistake people make is trying to take the whole thing apart. You can remove the console mast and the arms, which helps with height, but the base frame is one solid piece. Don't try to disassemble the internal flywheel mechanism unless you really know what you're doing.
If you have to move it down a flight of stairs, be extra careful. Because the weight is concentrated in the front (where the flywheel is), the machine is very unbalanced when you lift it. Use furniture dollies if you have flat ground, and make sure you have plenty of moving blankets to protect the plastic shrouds. They crack surprisingly easily if they bang against a door frame.
Maintenance After You Buy
Once you get your sole e35 used home, give it some love. The first thing you should do is tighten every bolt you can see. Vibrations from use tend to loosen things over time, and a "squeaky" elliptical is often just a loose bolt in the arm assembly.
Buy some 100% silicone lubricant. Do not use WD-40! Wipe down the rails with a damp cloth to get all the grit off, then apply a thin layer of silicone lube to the tracks. This will make the ride much quieter and save the wheels from premature wear.
If the pedals feel a bit crunchy, you can usually pop the covers off and grease the pivot points. A little bit of basic maintenance can easily add another five or ten years to the life of these machines. It's honestly impressive how much abuse a Sole can take if you just keep the moving parts clean.
Is It the Right Choice for You?
At the end of the day, looking for a sole e35 used is a smart move for someone who wants a serious workout without the commercial gym price tag. It's a "no-nonsense" machine. It's not going to coach you through a scenic hike in the Swiss Alps on a HD screen, but it's going to provide a smooth, low-impact workout that burns calories and builds endurance.
If you have the space for it (it has a pretty large footprint, so measure your room first!) and you can find a seller who treated theirs with a bit of respect, you'll likely end up very happy. It's one of the few pieces of home fitness equipment that actually feels like it was meant to last, which is a rare thing these days. Just make sure you bring a truck and a couple of strong helpers, and you'll be set for years of cardio.